NC Man Going To Prison For Murder Of NJ Gang Member

TOMS RIVER, NJ - A North Carolina man is headed to prison for his role in the murder of a New Jersey street gang member who authorities say was killed because a gang leader thought he had told police about a robbery the leader committed.

Thigpen was convicted of conspiracy in the slaying, but three murder trials all ended in hung juries.

Thigpen received a 17-year sentence on Friday and must serve 85 percent of that term before he becomes eligible for parole.

Dyshon Ragland, the gang leader who ordered the slaying of Skyers, was convicted on numerous charges, including armed robbery, murder, conspiracy, witness tampering and aggravated assault. He's now serving a lengthy state prison term.